ST. LOUIS — The Gateway Arch National Park is offering a variety of events in honor of Black History throughout February.

Below is a list of events as stated in the press release:

 

Iron Riders: A Living History Demonstration

 

Gateway Arch National Park will host a Buffalo Soldier living history demonstration titled “Iron Riders” on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the education classroom inside the Visitor Center. Iron Riders were a small group of men who branched from the Buffalo Soldiers, which was a regiment in the United States Army made up of African American men. In 1897, this group of 23 men journeyed nearly 2,000 miles from Missoula, Montana to St. Louis on bicycles. Reenactor Kevin Smith from Missouri State Parks will give visitors a 1st person account of the trials and triumphs of this unique experience in honor of Black History Month. This event is free, no registration is required.

 

Ranger Led Black History Talks

 

Every day throughout February, Gateway Arch National Park Service Rangers will lead a black history-themed discussion on the lives of African Americans in the West starting at 12:15 p.m. Featured topics include the Dred Scott decision and the Old Courthouse in St. Louis, the Exoduster movement and more. The daily talks are free and open to the public at the Museum at the Gateway Arch.

 

“Slavery on Trial” Film Screening

 

The National Park Service will show the 20-minute documentary, “Slavery on Trial,” about the Dred Scott decision, every Saturday and Sunday in February. The film will be shown on a loop from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the education classroom inside the Visitor Center.

This documentary is an educational resource designed for students in third through fifth grade. It examines the Dred Scott case and helps students better understand debates about slavery before the American Civil War. A DVD is available for loan to schools from the National Park Service Education Department at no charge. To learn more and request this DVD, call 314-655-1635.

Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Junior Ranger Activity Book

Throughout February, Junior Rangers of all ages are invited to complete a special activity booklet and earn a badge from the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. The Junior Ranger program is free. Activity books can be picked up at the visitor desks at the entrance of the Visitor Center or by the Tucker Theater.